allusion
Translation
indirect reference, mention, hint
Examples
The book is full of allusions to Shakespeare.
The book is full of allusions to Shakespeare.
He made a vague allusion to a recent scandal.
He made a vague allusion to a recent scandal.
Grammar Patterns
an allusion to ((sth./sb.)) an indirect reference to (sth./sb.) The book is full of allusions to Shakespeare.
Similar Words
Similar: reference, hint; Commonly confused with: illusion
Etymology
From Latin 'alludere' (to play with, to jest), from 'ad-' (to) + 'ludere' (to play).
Memory Tips
Don't confuse 'allusion' (an indirect reference) with 'illusion' (a false perception). It's related to 'allude to'.